This Cheeseburger Soup is a cozy bowl of comfort! It has all the rich flavors of a cheeseburger, packed with beef, cheese, and veggies in a creamy broth.
I love how friendly this soup is for chilly days. Pair it with some crusty bread, and you have a meal that warms both the belly and the heart! 🥣❤️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: The heart of this soup! I love using lean ground beef to keep it from being too greasy. You can substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version, or even plant-based ground meat if you prefer a vegetarian option.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar melts wonderfully and gives a great flavor. If you’re looking for a different taste, try using Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for some spice. Velveeta can also be used for an ultra-creamy texture!
Potatoes: Diced potatoes add heartiness to the soup. Yukon Gold is my go-to because they’re creamy when cooked. You can easily swap in sweet potatoes, just adjust the cooking time as they may cook faster!
Heavy Cream: For richness, heavy cream is great, but you can use half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter soup. Coconut milk works as a non-dairy alternative while still keeping a creamy texture.
How Do You Get the Right Flavor Balance?
Balancing flavors is key in making your cheeseburger soup delicious! Start with browning the beef well—this adds depth. Sautéing the onions and garlic brings out their sweetness. Don’t rush adding the flour; cooking it for a minute gets rid of any raw taste, helping to thicken your soup properly.
- Combine onion and garlic with the beef until it’s fragrant, but watch them closely so they don’t burn.
- When adding the broth, do it slowly while stirring to prevent lumps from the flour.
- Taste before serving! Adjust salt, pepper, and consider adding a splash more ketchup for sweetness or a dash of mustard for tang.
These steps will ensure your cheeseburger soup is flavorful and creamy, making it a hit every time!
Cheeseburger Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups (720 ml) beef broth
- 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 cup (150 g) carrots, diced
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) ketchup
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
- 2 cups (200 g) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (plus extra for garnish)
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp butter
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1/2 tsp dried mustard or smoked paprika for extra flavor
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful cheeseburger soup takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 30 minutes to cook. So, in just about 45 minutes, you’ll have a warm, comforting bowl of soup ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Beef:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat over medium heat and cook the ground beef until it’s all browned and no longer pink. Don’t forget to drain out any excess fat, so your soup won’t be greasy.
2. Sauté the Veggies:
Next, add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot with the beef. Sauté them together until the onion turns translucent and smells delicious, about 3-4 minutes. This step really enhances the soup’s flavor!
3. Create the Base:
Now, stir in the butter until it melts nicely. Sprinkle the flour over the mixture and stir well for about 1-2 minutes. This helps thicken the soup and cooks off the raw taste of the flour.
4. Add Broth and Veggies:
Gradually pour in the beef broth while stirring to prevent lumps from forming. Then, toss in the diced potatoes and carrots. Bring everything to a low boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer until the veggies are tender, which should take about 15-20 minutes.
5. Mix in the Goodness:
Add in the ketchup and season with salt, pepper, and if you like, sprinkle in some dried mustard or smoked paprika for that extra kick. Stir well to combine.
6. Creamy Finish:
Lower the heat and slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously. This will give your soup that creamy, comforting texture we all love!
7. Cheese Time:
Finally, gently fold in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts completely and the soup is smooth. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the soup hot, garnished with additional shredded cheddar cheese or freshly cracked black pepper on top. Get ready for a cozy meal that tastes just like cheeseburgers!
This creamy, cheesy Cheeseburger Soup is perfect for any comfort food craving. Enjoy every spoonful!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative to beef in this recipe. Just ensure you cook it fully and adjust the seasoning to enhance the flavors, as turkey can be milder.
Can I Make This Vegetarian?
You can easily make a vegetarian version by substituting ground beef with plant-based ground meat or cooked lentils. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth, and keep all the veggies for a hearty soup!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, do it gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heat distribution.
Can I Freeze Cheeseburger Soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat on the stove, adding a little extra broth or cream to restore creaminess.
